17084, Reedsville, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 17084, Reedsville, Pennsylvania is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

74.51 percent of residents in 17084 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.00 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger-Lewistown Hospital with a distance of 4.70 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Reedsville, PA (ZIP Code 17084)

The quest for timely and effective healthcare, particularly for a condition as serious as prostate cancer, is a complex undertaking. It involves more than just finding a skilled physician; it demands a careful consideration of accessibility. This analysis focuses on healthcare access for prostate cancer treatment within and around Reedsville, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17084), evaluating the transportation landscape and its impact on the Prostate Cancer Score. This score reflects the ease with which residents can reach essential medical services.

Reedsville, a charming community nestled in Mifflin County, offers a tranquil lifestyle. However, its relative remoteness presents unique challenges when it comes to healthcare access. The availability of specialized medical services, including those crucial for prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment, is a key factor. Assessing this involves a deep dive into the transportation options available to residents.

**Driving the Distance: Roadways to Recovery**

For many, personal vehicles remain the primary mode of transportation. The efficiency of this option hinges on the condition of the roads and the distances involved. Residents of Reedsville will likely need to travel to larger towns and cities to access comprehensive prostate cancer care.

The primary arteries connecting Reedsville to these crucial medical hubs are Route 322, a vital east-west corridor, and Route 655, a north-south thoroughfare. Driving to Lewistown, the county seat, is a relatively short journey, typically taking around 15 to 20 minutes. Lewistown houses Geisinger Lewistown Hospital, a potential point of care. The drive is generally straightforward, though traffic can be heavier during peak hours, especially on Route 322.

For more specialized care, residents might need to travel to State College, home to Mount Nittany Medical Center and the Penn State Cancer Institute. This journey, primarily on Route 322, can take approximately an hour, depending on traffic. The route is scenic, but the distance necessitates careful planning.

Alternatively, Harrisburg, a major medical center, lies further afield, roughly a 1.5-hour drive via Route 322 and US-322. This option offers a wider array of specialists and treatment options, but the increased travel time adds to the complexity.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public transportation options in and around Reedsville are limited. Mifflin County offers a public transit system, but its reach is restricted. The availability of routes and their frequency are critical factors.

The Mifflin County Transit Authority (MCTA) provides bus service, but the routes and schedules might not directly serve the specific medical facilities needed for prostate cancer care. Accessibility for individuals with disabilities, including those undergoing treatment, is crucial. The MCTA should provide ADA-compliant buses, ensuring that individuals with mobility challenges can utilize the service. Confirming this is a key element of the Prostate Cancer Score.

Travelers using public transit may need to combine bus travel with other modes of transportation, such as taxis or ride-sharing services, to reach their final destinations. The efficiency of this multi-modal approach is a crucial factor.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible transportation alternative. However, their availability and cost can vary depending on the demand and the location. In a more rural area, the wait times for a ride-share can be longer, and the cost might be higher.

Medical transportation services, such as those provided by ambulance companies or specialized medical transport providers, offer another option. These services are specifically designed to transport individuals with medical needs, including those undergoing cancer treatment. However, these services are typically more expensive than ride-sharing or public transit.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Challenge**

The Prostate Cancer Score is not solely determined by transportation. The availability of specialists, the types of treatment offered, and the patient's insurance coverage all play vital roles. However, transportation significantly impacts access to these essential services.

The proximity of medical facilities, the ease of travel, and the availability of transportation options all contribute to the overall score. For residents of Reedsville, the score reflects the challenges of accessing comprehensive prostate cancer care.

**Moving to Reedsville: A Consideration of Healthcare**

For individuals considering a move to Reedsville, the Prostate Cancer Score provides valuable insight. It is essential to weigh the benefits of the community, such as its peaceful environment, against the potential challenges of accessing specialized healthcare.

Prospective residents should research the availability of medical specialists in the area, the transportation options, and the potential costs associated with healthcare access. This information will help them make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

**Prostate Cancer Score: A Summary**

The Prostate Cancer Score for Reedsville, PA, reflects the need for careful planning. While Lewistown offers some local care, travel to State College or Harrisburg is often necessary. The limited public transit options and the potential reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services highlight the importance of considering transportation when assessing healthcare access.

The score is not static; it can be improved through community initiatives, such as advocating for expanded public transit routes or supporting the growth of local medical services.

Ultimately, the Prostate Cancer Score is a tool that helps residents of Reedsville and prospective movers understand the complexities of healthcare access. It underscores the importance of proactive planning and informed decision-making when it comes to a serious health condition like prostate cancer. It is a call to action for the community to prioritize healthcare access and ensure that residents can receive the timely and effective care they deserve.